The Canadian Seed Growers’ Association (CSGA) would like to clarify misinformation in the “Canadian Seed Growers’ Membership Considers Starting Farmer-Owned Seed Company” article of the Western Producer on a discussion held at our AGM in Whitehorse.
As part of the AGM, CSGA brought together panelists with different perspectives to explore the future of plant breeding in Canada. The purpose of the session was to encourage an open and forward-looking discussion about the challenges facing the sector and the range of approaches that could shape Canada’s future plant breeding system.
Recent reporting has suggested that CSGA and its membership are considering the creation of a farmer-owned seed company. This is not accurate. CSGA has no plans or discussions underway to create or operate a seed company. We are disappointed by the headline, which is misleading and does not accurately reflect the nature or purpose of the discussion.
CSGA values thoughtful discussion and differing perspectives. Bringing those voices together is an important part of helping our members and stakeholders understand a changing environment and informing our work. It should not, however, be interpreted as organizational endorsement of every idea explored during those sessions.
Our focus remains on Canada’s seed certification system and working with partners across the sector to ensure a strong and innovative Canadian seed system.
